gonorrhoea

What is it?

Gonorrhoea
is similar to Chlamydia but less common. Women aged 16-24, and men aged
20-24 are at the greatest risk. You can get it through oral, vaginal or
anal sex

Symptoms

The symptoms are different for men and women. Most women don't
have any symptoms but most men have symptoms.

In men

Yellow/white discharge from the penis

Burning feeling when passing urine (peeing)

Inflammation of the testicles

Irritation/discharge from the anus ( back passage)

In women

Most women do not have symptoms but could have:

Unusual discharge from the vagina

Burning feeling when passing urine (peeing)

Unusual bleeding.

Irritation/discharge from the anus

What is it caused by?

Bacteria

How is it diagnosed?

By taking a swab from the genital area.

How is it treated?

By a short course of antibiotics from your GP or Sexual
Health clinic.
Your partner also needs to be tested and treated.

What can happen if it’s
not treated?

Left untreated it can cause infertility (inability to have a child) Ectopic
pregnancy and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. Occasionally gonorrhoea spreads
into the blood stream causing infection of the heart, brain and joints.

Safer Sex

You cannot tell by looking at someone if they have a sexually transmitted
infection, so if you are having sex (oral, anal or vaginal) the only way
to make sure you are not putting yourself at risk is to practise safer
sex.
This means:

Always using condoms or femidoms (female condom inserted within the
vagina) for vaginal sex.

Always using condoms with water based lube for anal sex. Do not use condoms with spermicide
if you are having anal sex.

Always using flavoured condoms or dental dams (a latex shield that covers
the mouth) when having oral sex.

Trying non-penetrative sex like massage or mutual masturbation.

Condoms / Femidoms also protect you from other STIs including HIV. Always
check the packaging for the British Standard kitemark or European product
mark as well as the date of expiry.

Free condoms are available throughout Dumfries & Galloway. See the Clinic List.